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January 22, 2011

.:Quit Counting Calories

Yet another really good article from Real Simple! 9 realistic strategies that will have you eating right for life, and saying good-bye to diet guilt. I read the article and it is all very doable if you're struggling on trying to lose a few extra pounds, or if you're trying to change your whole lifestyle of eating and exercising. Here is a preview of the article:

Give Yourself Ample Time to Eat
Why: People who say they eat quickly right up until they feel full are three time more likely to be overweight than those with slower dining habits, according to a 2008 study published in The British Medical Journal. In an irritating tribute to something your mother probably told you, researchers suspect that fast eaters don't give the brain's fullness signals time to kick in, which can take as long as 20 minutes after the first bite, according to research.

How to do it: Check the clock before you start eating, even if you're having a meal on the go or while working at your desk (never an ideal way to eat, but often a necessary evil). Then stretch that meal out for at least 20 minutes. If you're still hungry after finishing, take a 20-minute-time-out (sip tea; relax; take your mind off eating). At the end of the time-out, check your hunger signals. Go back for seconds only if the signals are still strong. Other smart idea: Be sure to sit down for meals--don't stand or walk around--and take small bites, chewing each thoroughly. Researchers at Cornell University found that people who chew their food approximately 15 times, versus 12, tend to be thinner. That's how much impact these subtle changes can have.

I recommend reading the full article!

Thanks, Real Simple

1 comment:

Saundra Irene said...

Im not so sure that not counting calories is the best idea. For example people go to a restaurant or a fast food joint and they order a salad or a soup thinking they're making 'healthy' choices. Little do they know they're about to consume 500 in upwards into 1000 calories! I personally believe calorie counting is an affective method in controling portion sizes and maintaining weight. Although try not becoming a slave to flipping the box or can over to the back in the grocery isle!

I do however agree with pacing yourself while eating. Food should be an experience. One should savor every bite and actually enjoy their meal. I've often though some people continue to consume food throughout the day not because their hunger wasn't satisfied, but their experience lacked satisfaction.

Thanks for referencing these articles. Many if them are very informative and interesting.